Pitman fundraiser gets assist from city

BY ANDY POWELLTimes Staff Writer

Wednesday

Apr 24, 2013 at 5:32 PMApr 24, 2013 at 5:33 PM

Efforts to raise money for improvements to the Pitman Theatre have gotten a big boost from the city of Gadsden.

Efforts to raise money for improvements to the Pitman Theatre have gotten a big boost from the city of Gadsden.Robert Smith, a sound engineer who is helping to organize Sunday’s “Party with a Purpose at the Pitman” concert, said Mayor Sherman Guyton has agreed for the city to match donations given at the event.“For every dollar raised, they’re going to match it,” Smith said. “If we raise $1,500, they’re going to put $1,500 with it.” Organizers hope to raise enough money to purchase acoustic curtains to improve the sound quality at the theater. Smith estimated the curtains will cost between $2,500 and $3,000.“That is the first goal, and anything above that is going to be for upstairs bathrooms next,” he said, adding that a long-term goal is to make the balcony usable.Four local bands are taking part in the concert. Danny Moon and Friends will perform at 4 p.m., followed at 5 p.m. by Foggy Hollow, at 6 p.m. by the Liz Wood Project and at 7 p.m. by Trading Faces.Other local performers are expected to participate.The Pitman will be set up with tables and chairs, and those attending can bring picnic meals or other food and coolers.There is no admission charge for the event but tax-deductible donations to Downtown Gadsden Inc. that will go toward the curtain will be accepted.“Here we are — citizens and friends of the Pitman and now the city,” Smith said. “They’ve recognized our engagement to make this a better facility, so they’re coming on board and (will) match dollars with it, I think it’s a great thing.”Given the positive reaction from the community about the event and its sponsors, Smith expects it to be a success.“I think we will cover the cost of the curtains and a good portion of getting the bathrooms in a usable state,” he said. “It’s going to depend on how generous the crowd is that Sunday.”Smith said organizers planned the event so it would not conflict with the Etowah Youth Orchestras’ Spring Formal Concert at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Wallace Hall Fine Arts Center. They also didn’t want to conflict with live entertainment Friday and Saturday evenings at local clubs.Cash, checks and credit cards will be accepted for donations.Back 40 Beer Co., Advanced Imaging, Insurance Facilities and Team One Automotive are sponsoring the event.

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